Police investigating the disappearance of a teenage arsonist from a mental health facility have warned the public to stay away from him “under any circumstances.”
Johnny Brady, 19, escaped from St Andrew’s Medical Facility in Northampton around 3:30 pm on December 31st. He was on a hospital order with serious assault and arson convictions.
Police said they were “increasingly concerned” about his disappearance, and officers said they had not confirmed any sightings of the teenager so far.
Members of the public are urged to stay away from Brady, who officers described as being about 5’9″ Caucasian and of slim build. If anyone spots him, call 999 to report the sighting is needed.
He was last seen wearing black Adidas tracksuit bottoms, a black hoodie, and black trainers.
Police also said they were investigating three arson incidents in the local area that may be linked to Brady.
The damage Johnny Brady did to St. Mary’s Catholic School
(Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service)
Detective Superintendent Richard Tompkins of the Metropolitan Police Department said: “We have officers actively looking for Johnny, but he has been missing for nearly 24 hours now, and there have been no confirmed sightings, which makes us all the more concerned.
“Johnny is serving a conviction hospital order related to arson and serious assault, so it is very important that the public stay away from him under any circumstances and call 999 immediately. “
He added:
Fire at Ravensdale Infant School started by Brady in 2020
(Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service)
“As arson can have deadly consequences, we urge the public to be especially vigilant within local communities. If you do, please call 999 immediately.”
Brady was responsible for a series of arson attacks on schools and churches between October and December 2020. He caused millions of pounds worth of damage and disrupted the education of thousands of children, the Derby Criminal Court heard.
Roof of All Saints Church in Mackworth collapses in fire
(Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service)
The court said in September of this year that Brady “enjoyed” watching the fire destroy the building. At Mackworth’s All-His Saints Church, a fire he started caused the roof of a 14th-century listed Grade I building to collapse.
Another Brady started at Ravensdale School in Mickleover, only the steel structure remained.
The court heard that Brady suffered from “severe and persistent autism.”
